4 Steps to Create a Space for Curiosity

Curiosity is the building block of learning and the fuel of engagement— the root of the word comes from the LATIN Cura “to care” We manifest our care with three words “I’m just curious”

Research shows our brain releases dopamine when we ask questions, when we’re discovering something new, which makes us feel good, AND when we show curiosity about someone else, we trigger dopamine release in THEIR brain because our interest in them is felt as a compliment.  When curiosity is mutual it becomes SHARED DISCOVERY and increases five key components of engagement 1. Awareness 2. Participation  3. Confidence 4. Collaboration and ultimately 5. TRUST

Science shows the importance curiosity plays in developing our brain internally, developing connection with others and the development of society as a whole. Once you learn to ask questions, you have learned how to learn.  Learning is a function of the brain’s neuroplasticity (what scientist’s term new ‘connections’ between neurons) the brain’s ability to change, grow and reorganize. Neurons that fire together, wire together. Learning is the brain being rewired.  AND BECAUSE Discovery and learning triggers Dopamine Release – the reward system in the brain, it feels good.…  and we want to repeat that…  So, Curiosity leads to Discovery and Deeper Engagement.  

People might be reluctant to ask questions because they have a paradigm that questions are pushy or rude or somehow make them vulnerable in admitting they don’t know something.  We need to create a space for people to feel comfortable being curious.  So here are four steps to create a space for Curiosity 1. Remind your Team that it is our duty to care— and  2. give yourself permission to be curious.. 3. Reframe asking questions as a journey of shared discovery. And 4. before any engagement, curate a list of Curiosity questions by starting with the words, who, what, where, when, why, how and the phrase “I’m just curious…”  by doing this we will reinforce the behaviors that make us who we want to be.”